sonible smart:comp spectro-dynamic compressor plug-in
Posted on: Monday 5th of August 2019
smart:comp is the latest addition to the product line of A.I. powered plug-ins by sonible. This spectro-dynamic compressor finds the parameters for well-balanced compression results in just a few seconds. smart:comp is basically two compressors in one: enhanced time-domain compression and ground-breaking spectral compression. Resolution is currently testing smart:comp and the spectral operation has to be heard to be appreciated! Behind the user-friendly interface runs the smart:engine – a content-aware system designed on the basis of psychoacoustic principles as well as hands-on mixing experience. The time-domain compressor recommends the most appropriate settings for threshold, ratio, attack and release with a single click, as the spectral compression dynamically keeps an eye on the tonal balance of the input signal.
When activating the learning mode of smart:comp, the plug-in analyses the incoming audio signal and sets specific parameters that result in well-balanced compression – all with the familiar look and handling of a ‘single band’ compressor.
The spectral compression is all about giving a track the best possible definition and maximum transparency. By continuously analyzing the input signal across more than 2000 bands, smart:comp acts like an intelligent, ultra-high-resolution multiband compressor that dynamically smoothes out tonal imbalances. It only applies compression where it is really needed and therefore ensures a consistent tonal and dynamic balance at all times.
To seamlessly merge signals that compete for attention within the same spectral regions, smart:comp ‘listens’ for potential spectral clashes between the input and the sidechain signals, when operating in sidechain mode. By dynamically ducking affected frequency regions of the input signal, it creates space for the sidechain signal.
Similar to sonible’s smart:EQ 2 (review, Resolution V18.1), the new compressor plug-in smart:comp comes equipped with profiles for different audio sources. These profiles allow smart:comp to optimally adapt its internal processing to the characteristics of the respective input signal.
“As compression is probably the most critical task in the mixing process, the development of smart:comp has been a fascinating challenge. Together with our engineering team, we wanted to take the next step in the evolution of audio compression – and now we can proudly say: We have taken it!” Alexander Wankhammer, co-founder sonible GmbH
smart:comp – key features
• Automatic compression parametrization in seconds
• Spectral compression for tonal and dynamic balance
• Attack and release shaper for more creative flexibility
• Frequency-dependent ducking in sidechain mode
• Smart auto gain for consistent loudness perception
• Factory profiles for content-aware processing
• Efficient and CPU-friendly graphic processing
Our review will be published in a forthcoming edition of Resolution.
